Geranium

Geranium is a genus of plants that includes more than 400 species. These species come in annual, biennial, and perennial types. Geraniums bloom flowers that typically feature five circular petals that come in shades of white, pink, purple, and blue. Also known as "cranesbills," geraniums thrive in temperate regions. Popular species of geraniums include ivy-leafed geraniums, pink expectation, pink satisfaction, and Martha Washington geraniums.

Geraniums are popular plants for the home gardener because they are reliable. Their durable flowers can withstand wind and rain, adding color to landscapes without wilting or falling apart. Geraniums are typically planted in the spring months once the weather warms. They are planted in direct sunlight in an area with good water drainage, which helps flowers bloom.

Another reason why gardeners regularly use geraniums is because they grow in any type of soil, as long as it is well-aerated and porous. They do not have to be planted deeply in order to thrive. Insects do not cause significant problems for geraniums, making them an appealing and durable plant.

While many species of geranium are planted for these features, some species are classified as annual or biennial weeds, including the Carolina geranium. This plant typically blooms in April and May. Regular maintenance of lawn and landscape areas as well as chemical control can help reduce the spread of those geraniums, including the Carolina geranium, that are classified as weeds.

Geranium oil is extracted from the stem and leaves of the plant through steam distillation. Geranium oil has a number of uses, making it a common ingredient in herbal therapy and natural medicine. Because there are so many species of geraniums, types of geranium oil can differ as well. A common oil is rose geranium oil. Despite the differences in geranium oil types, the properties of geranium oils are essentially the same, with each oil type offering similar benefits.

Geranium oil is often used in aromatherapy. The oil emits an inviting scent, often a strong aroma with a floral scent with mint undertones. Some types of geranium essential oil possess an apple scent, while others smell like roses. Geranium essential oil is watery and generally colorless, though it can sometimes be pale green. In aromatherapy, geranium oil is known for its overall balancing effect on the mind. It can relieve stress, treat mild depression, reduce anxiety and tension, and increase an individual's energy.

Geranium oil is also associated with treating physical ailments and conditions as well. It plays a role in balancing the hormonal system;thus, geranium oil can help treat PMS and menopause symptoms. Its strong smell makes it effective in protecting individuals from mosquitos and head lice. Geranium oil is both antibacterial and antimicrobial. When it is applied to wounds, it can help keep them clean and free of infection.

Many of geranium oil's benefit are particularly relevant for the beauty and personal care industry as well It functions well as an astringent, which makes the skin, tissues, and blood vessels contract. Thus, geranium oil used alone or as an ingredient in skin care products can prevent sagging, loose skin. Moreover, its astringent benefits can help prevent wrinkles from forming. Thus, geranium oil has anti-aging properties.

Geranium oil can help scars and skin spots to fade, helping create clearer, healthier skin. Acne scars can be treated by geranium oil. In addition, geranium oil is a proven acne fighter, and as a natural botanical ingredient, it can gently minimize breakouts. It can also ease the symptoms of other skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis.

Finally, geranium oil has cytophylactic properties, meaning that it can stimulate cellular regeneration in the skin. It encourages dead skin cells to be recycled and new cells to be created. The result is more radiant skin.

Geranium oil can be found in a range of beauty and skin care products. Its refreshing aroma makes it a common ingredient in body washes and shampoos. Moisturizers, toners, body polishes, and aromatherapy oils also commonly include geranium oil as an ingredient. Anti-aging serums and complexes focused on eliminating fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots also use geranium oil.

As a natural botanical extract, geranium oil is a gentle ingredient. No significant side effects are associated with its use.